Bernard B. “Sparky” Kettleson

PORTAGE  --  Bernard B. “Sparky” Kettleson, a longtime resident of Portage, passed away on Monday, September 7, 2009 at Divine Savior Healthcare Hospital, in Portage.

Bernard Benjamin Kettleson was born on March 26, 1922, in Milwaukee, WI the son of Benjamin Kettleson and Elsie (Kuhn) Kettleson.  He served in the U.S. Army Air Corp. during WW II from November 20, 1942 to December 5, 1945.  He was a member of the VFW and American Legion Post 0047.  Bernard retired from Bancroft Dairy, Madison in January of 1984.  He enjoyed spending time at home watching and taking care of the birds and deer, and gardening.  Bernard was thankful for all the time he was able to spend with his grandson’s Eric and Kirk, and watching them grow up.   

Bernard is survived by his wife and best friend, Doris (Thurler) Kettleson, Portage; his son, Ricky Lee (Diane) Kettleson, Oxford, WI; two grandsons, Eric Kettleson, St. Louis, MO, and Kirkland Kettleson, Wisconsin Dells, WI; his sister, Ruth Kettleson, Baraboo, WI; his aunt, Mae Best, Portage; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.  Bernard was preceded in death by his parents, his son, Douglas Kettleson, his brother, Robert Kettleson, and his step-brother, Orris Kuhn.

Private graveside services will be held at a later date.

The Pflanz Mantey Mendrala Funeral Home is assisting the family.  www.pmmfh.com